Writer's Block Is A Lie: Follow This Formula and Never Get Stuck Again

Creative stagnation.

That's how I'd describe the funk I was in. And I was desperate to figure out a way to jump-start it again. To get those juices flowing, so to speak.

That's when I Googled writing prompts.

Look, the act of simply sitting down and writing on a blank page can be daunting, but writing prompts are one way to motivate us into writing. Whether you're looking for a creative outlet or just want to explore your creative voice, there are many ways in which you can use them. Prompts will give your brain the necessary spark and nudge it needs to create by giving you an idea of what to write about.

I wrote this for those who feel that their creativity has stagnated and want a way to jump-start it again.

When you feel like your brain is buried under bags of concrete, it can be hard to even summon the energy to write one short sentence. It's easy enough to blame laziness on your brain, but it's not always that simple. Maybe you're too afraid that whatever you write will come out forced and unnatural, or perhaps it just seems so much easier to ignore your writing desires entirely.

But if we want our creative juices flowing again, then we need to do something about it.

So what exactly is a writing prompt?

Writing prompts can be seen as anything that gets your mojo in motion, whether a pre-set list of questions or objects for you to work with. You can do something as simple as reading one from a list or create your own by setting a timer and thinking of whatever pops into your head.

Writing prompts also work well because they give your brain the necessary spark it needs to light up by giving you slivers of ideas of what to write about. If you have trouble developing ideas on your own, then these cues can also help you do that.

And more often than not, these little prods are all around us.

Whenever I use a prompt, I find it makes me think of things or people I never would have thought of otherwise. That's because the spark is already there; you just need someone else (or something) to ignite it.

So, where exactly does one find these elusive aids?

Don't overthink it. Often these emerge when we go for a lazy walk. A barking dog chained to his doghouse leads to an idea, and from there, a story appears.

The prompt would be having gone outside for a walk.

Another simple way is for folks who have email lists, and they send you one prompt a day. More than often, the prompt is simply a word, like "vanilla." Your goal is then to use that one word as a foundation to create.

How to use writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing again

Don't be vanilla.

There. Right there, above, is a sentence I decided to type, and in and of itself can be a prompt for you. The way to use it is to do what you already know how to do as a writer.

The sentence is your canvas, your fingers the brush, so let them go to work.

Immerse yourself in its meaning. Let the words flow over your tongue as you say them out loud. Go buy a vanilla ice cream cone and see what stands out from that moment.

You see, a writing prompt doesn't need to always be a word that you think about, then write. It can be a sensation or emotion brought about because of the word. It might be the action you took after having read that word.

Said another way, there is no formulaic way to use writing prompts for your work.

A few more concrete examples of how to use these are below.

Think about what inspires you.

What are your interests? What have you always wanted to write? Let these thoughts flow through you.

Explore different genres.

It may not be what you're used to, but that doesn't mean it should restrict us in any way. This includes exploring different genres, such as poetry or even nonfiction. You pick. Then go.

Look at things differently.

Sometimes, we look at things one way. The way we're used to. Approach it from someone else's viewpoint, from another lens, and see what crops up.

Tips for using writing prompts effectively

Just because we have a new tool does not mean we know how to use it.

Some writers will read this and see a logical progression in how to spark creativity with prompts. Others will read this and still feel there's a piece missing. You're both right.

So for those who need that missing piece, here are a few tips that will help you use writing prompts effectively and get the most out of them.

Read before you leap. 

Earlier I mentioned exploring a different genre. But first, do this. Read about it. If it's poetry, then read all types of it. If it's horror, then go scare yourself with some Stephen King. Soak it up first, then dive in with your pen. 

It can be liberating to go outside the box for a bit and see what kind of stories come up.

Time yourself. 

Act like a professional with a deadline. Setting your timer for 5 minutes and thinking about any word as your prompt is an easy way to force creativity. If this feels daunting and a part of you just wants to succumb to writer's block, then imagine this.

You call a plumber to fix your sink, and he can't. He says he has "plumbers block." Stupid right?

Yeah, so is writer's block.

Be a pro about your craft. Set the timer, pick a word, and go.

Make yourself write.

This one can be tough, primarily if you're used to writing when the mood strikes you. Making yourself sit down and move your fingers across the keyboard takes some getting used to. The good news is that it's an easy habit to get into, and after a while, you won't even notice how much time has passed.

Strike while the iron is hot, or make the iron hot by striking. You choose. 

The final prompt

Writing prompts are a great way to get your creative juices flowing.

They can sometimes hit one, two, or all three of these critical buttons. Energy, emotion, and endorphins propel you forward.

It doesn't matter if you're an aspiring author or simply looking for a new creative outlet. Writing prompts can be used in many ways and provide many benefits.

Whether you need help getting back into the habit of writing every day or want some inspiration from time to time, don't ever be stopped or scared by the fact that your idea bucket seems empty.

Find your prompt.